ACSSO Submission to the Productivity Commission Early Childhood Education and Care Review

May 2023

ACSSO believes that a quality early childhood education and care (ECEC) program can assist with an effective transition period for a child and their family, which is fundamental in setting a solid foundation for future education and social outcomes.

ECEC can significantly impact a child's development by fostering more vital social skills, increased self-confidence, better coordination, creative thinking, and improved self-esteem. It lays a solid foundation for a child's life, allowing them to make new friends, cultivate independence, and learn new habits. ECEC also eases the transition to school.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation has identified that ECEC goes beyond preparing a child for primary school. Its goal is to support the overall development of a child's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs, creating a solid foundation for lifelong learning and well-being. ECEC has the potential to cultivate kind, competent, and responsible future citizens.

Supporting our family on just one income is impossible for many of us. Therefore, parents must consider the financial impact of taking unpaid maternity/paternity leave and returning to work either full-time or part-time. This decision can affect your child and your family's economic well-being.

Regrettably, some policymakers still believe that caring for young children is an easy task that anyone can undertake, which is unhelpful.

Read the full submission here